The Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) has announced the best construction trainees and apprentices from across the UK set to compete at this year's SkillBuild 2024 Regional Qualifiers.

SkillBuild, delivered by the CITB, is a prestigious showcase for construction talent as the largest and longest-running industry skills competition in the UK.

This year attracted more competitors than ever, with over 1,000 students battling it out across 10 construction trade categories during the 19 Regional Qualifiers. The one-day events, where learners were asked to complete a set task relevant to their chosen trade, also saw the most females and more competitors from ethnic minorities taking part.

A total of 78 students – the highest scorers in each category – will go head-to-head in the National Final at the Marshall Arena, Milton Keynes this November, where the 10 winners will be crowned top of their trade.

During the three-day final, the competitors will be expected to construct a project within an 18-hour period. The expert panel of judges will assess them on a number of aspects – including technical ability, time management, problem solving, skills working under pressure, and compliance with health and safety requirements.

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With CITB's annual industry forecast highlighting that more than 250,000 extra construction workers will be required by 2028 to meet demand, SkillBuild is an important platform for raising the profile of the sector and awareness of the diverse range of roles on offer.

Richard Bullock, Head of Careers Products at CITB, said: "It's brilliant to see a record number of competitors in the SkillBuild 2024 Regional Qualifiers showcasing the best new talent coming into the sector.

"It is a critical time for skills development and training within the construction industry. SkillBuild inspires potential new entrants towards construction, highlighting the value that a trainee or apprentice can add to a business and demonstrating the incredible quality that can be achieved when talented, dedicated individuals are well supported to achieve their potential.

"SkillBuild is a great opportunity that helps young people to grow in confidence and build the professional and technical skills that will underpin a fantastic career in construction. I wish all our competitors every success as they take on this year's National Final, and we look forward to seeing you in November!"

Jack Goodrum, a previous SkillBuild competitor and now judge, said: "SkillBuild is an excellent place to showcase the skills you have learnt in the workplace. The competition celebrates exceptional skill levels in each of the trades that compete and across the construction industry. SkillBuild takes the most difficult part of their respective trades and puts trainees under immense pressure to make a product to tight tolerances in a strict timescale.

"Coming from being a competitor myself to a judge in the carpentry category, I know how important these competitions are to improve skills, confidence and self-esteem. In getting through the Regional Qualifiers to the National Final, competitors know they are working to national standard and is of immense benefit to their employability."